If you are planning to visit Petra, Jordan, don’t forget to pay a visit to the majestic Al -Deir monastery dedicated to the Nabatean King Obodas. The building is called “THE MONASTERY” because of the deep-seated crosses carved in its wall. It lies north of the city centre of Petra and served as a temple for centuries.

The monastery is very impressive and stands 50 meters tall reaching up into the sky. Built in the 1st century, it also is the largest structure found at Petra. The smooth plaza seen at the front is carved in rock and was designed to accommodate huge crowds for religious functions. Originally, there was a colonnade encircling the plaza. The facade is fairly flat at the lower floor compared to the intricately carved upper segment and has a single room inside connected with double staircases to a niche. The magnificent urn tops the two floors to add to its elegance. Besides offering a panoramic sight of Wadi Arabia, the place is beautiful with surrounding rocky landscapes and scenic mountains.

You can reach the monastery by climbing the eight hundred steps carved in the rocks. To the left of the façade, a precipitous path leads to the topmost urn. The journey upwards is interesting, with springs and the Lion Triclinum along the way. Other neighboring places of interest include the cave and an intriguing stone circle.

Just outside the Monastery there’s a small cave with a built-in cafe which offers refreshments and a cool place to relax. Although it takes about 45 minutes to reach the top, you’ll find it to be a worthwhile climb to witness such resplendent beauty.